Season 9 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has reached the halfway point. The teams and drivers already have eight races behind them – in six global metropolises with track surfaces that could hardly be more different. Hankook Motorsport Director Manfred Sandbichler takes stock: “The new Formula E tyre, the Hankook iON Race, has mastered these challenges with great aplomb so far. When developing the tyre, we worked closely with those responsible in the FIA and Formula E. They wanted a tyre that works in both dry and wet conditions. Furthermore, it should also meet sustainability demands, meaning it had to be particularly hard-wearing and made from recyclable materials. The teams have just two sets of tyres for a single-header, including all the free practice and qualifying sessions, and three sets at their disposal for a double-header. Our mid-season summary: The Hankook iON Race is 100 percent meeting the requirements of Formula E! So far, there has not been a single puncture. And that despite the different track surfaces and external conditions. Whether asphalt or concrete, rough or smooth, in extreme heat like in Cape Town or cooler temperatures and rain like the races in Berlin – our tyre has overcome every challenge and reliably provided the drivers with the grip they require. Hankook has arrived in Formula E, and we are very proud!”
